2014 BA Achievement Awards Announced at Craft Brewers Conference

April 3, 2014

The Craft Brewers Conference opened with the General Session and Keynote Address in Denver, Colo. During this session, former BA Board member and co-owner of Elysian Brewing Co. Dick Cantwell announced the 2014 recipients of the F.X. Matt Defense of the Small Brewing Industry Award, the Brewers Association Recognition Award and the Russell Schehrer Award for Innovation in Craft Brewing.

The F.X. Matt Defense of the Small Brewing Industry Award is presented each year to those who have given aid and support to the causes of small, independent brewers and by doing so supported the Brewers Association’s goal of vigorously defending our industry. This year, Jester King Brewery in Austin, Texas was presented with the award for working to create craft-friendly legislation in their home state.

The Brewers Association Recognition Award was given to Teri Fahrendorf this year. Her inspiration, enthusiasm and support have contributed to the craft brewing movement. In 1989, Teri became the second woman brewmaster at a craft brewery in the U.S. She was the first woman brewmaster at a California craft brewery and also the first at an Oregon craft brewery. Teri is also the founder of the Pink Boots Society, an organization that works to empower women beer professionals to advance their careers in the beer industry through education.

Russell Schehrer was a founding partner and the original head brewer at Denver’s Wynkoop Brewing Company. Each year the Russell Schehrer Award for Innovation in Craft Brewing is presented to an industry member who has exhibited innovation and excellence in the field of craft brewing. This year, Mitch Steele accepted the award for his innovation and execution in brewing and also his work to share his knowledge and experience with the entire craft brewing industry.

Winners of these awards are nominated by the BA membership each year and are voted upon by the BA Board of Directors. Congratulations to this year’s winners!